[Teisha Nolen]

Mobile devices have become essential to our daily lives, but they also come with serious security risks. In 2022, there were several potential risks with mobile devices. One major threat was phishing and smishing (phishing via text), where attackers tricked users into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive info. These scams often looked legitimate, making them hard to spot.
Another growing concern was mobile malware and spyware. Some apps—especially those downloaded outside official app stores—were designed to steal data, track activity, or even control devices remotely. Public Wi-Fi also posed risks, exposing users to man-in-the-middle attacks where hackers could intercept communications.
Even seemingly harmless apps could be problematic. Many requested excessive permissions, leading to data leakage without users realizing it. Devices that missed regular updates were left exposed to known security flaws. This was especially true for older Android versions which often lacked timely patches, causing them to be easy targets.
All of this can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and even corporate breaches if work devices are compromised. Staying informed, using mobile security tools, and being cautious with downloads and links are key steps to staying safe.